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Sanders cheers on progressive candidates ahead of midterms, says polling shows voters "tired of the status quo"
CBS News • • nation
Key Points:
- Senator Bernie Sanders expressed strong support for progressive congressional candidates ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, highlighting grassroots enthusiasm and a nationwide demand for change.
- Sanders cited Michigan Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed and Minnesota Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan as promising progressives facing significant financial opposition from super PACs backing establishment candidates.
- He acknowledged divisions within the Democratic Party but emphasized that progressive candidates are gaining traction and appealing to working-class voters, including some Republicans struggling with economic issues.
- Sanders addressed the Maine Senate race, supporting Troy Jackson after progressive Graham Platner withdrew amid allegations, and expressed confidence in Jackson's chances despite a shortened campaign period.
- While Sanders did not regret backing Platner initially, he stressed the importance of candidates standing up for working-class interests and admitted uncertainty about the full vetting of all candidates.
